THE Ateneo De Manila University yesterday issued statements condemning the incident that took place at Arete Loyola Heights Campus on Sunday afternoon.

In a statement, the University even said it grieves as it does not condone any acts of violence and injustice towards the institution.

“Ateneo de Manila University condemned the attack,” it said, where three people were killed and two others were wounded.

The unidentified gunman, who was armed with two pistols, was taken into custody after the shooting near the gate of the university.

“Thankfully, the suspect was apprehended by the police shortly after and is now in the custody of the Quezon City Police District,” said a statement issued by the Ateneo de Manila University.

The incident occurred around an hour before the start of the 2022 commencement exercises of the Ateneo De Manila School of Law at Arete.

The university was put under lockdown and the graduation rite at a law school was canceled following the shooting.

“Ateneo de Manila University extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims,” said the University adding that there is no acceptable reason for violence.

“We hope and pray that justice will be swiftly served.”

“It has robbed the members of the Law School Class 2022 of what was supposed to be a joyous celebration,” it said.

It added that the University and the Law School administration are assisting students, staff, and guests who are dealing with trauma from the incident.

The Loyola Heights campus was immediately secured. The University assures the community that its campuses are safe and security protocols are now being reviewed and strengthened further.

“Ateneo is thankful for the swift response and assistance of Law enforcement and local government personnel. Ateneo will continue cooperating with the authorities in the investigation of this incident,” the statement said.

The University also appealed to the public to be careful in spreading unconfirmed information and rumors surrounding the incident.

“Finally, let us offer our prayers, especially for the victims and their families,” it said.

Investigators were trying to determine a motive for the attack.